Herrera was suspended last season under Major League Baseball's domestic violence policy following an arrest in Atlantic City on domestic assault charges. The charges were dismissed, but the 28-year-old remained on baseball's suspended list.
The Phillies owe Herrera $19.5 million. He was hitting .222 with one homer and 16 RBIs over 39 games last season before his suspension. It's nearly inevitable that he'll clear waivers and when that happens it's likely the Phillies outright him to the minor leagues. If he were to refuse the assignment he would forfeit the nearly $20 million still owed to him.
From there, the Phillies will have to likely make another decision. The organization could have Herrera participate in minor-league spring training and retain him as organizational depth for now with the hope of flipping him in a trade. The other option is an outright release.
By agreement with the Players Association and MLB, organizations cannot release players for breaking domestic violence policy, roster decisions have to be based entirely on baseball reasons.
In five seasons with the Phillies, Herrera hit .288 was an All-Star in 2006. Though he showed glimpses of being a top-tier outfielder he lacked reliability. He was prone to mental miscues and, at times, looked lackadaisical and lacked hustle.
In Martini, the Phillies acquired a career .226 hitter that'll compete for a spot on the bench. The 29-year-old spent the majority of last season in the minors where he hit ./328/.432/.482.
__________________________________
Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PGordonPBR
